An exciting new visitor attraction has opened its doors in the heart of Oldham.
The first phase of Northern Roots is now open, marking an exciting chapter at the home of what will be the UK’s largest urban farm.
Delivered through a partnership between the Northern Roots charity and Oldham Council, the new 160-acre development gives people the chance to enjoy nature closer to home, improving local health and wellbeing, supporting education, creating local jobs and playing an important role in Oldham's ongoing regeneration.
The project is transforming 160-acres of underused land next to Alexandra Park into a landmark destination and the opening day gave visitors their first opportunity to experience the Welcome Building, cafe, Forestry Skills Centre, Urban Farm and an expanding network of trails, orchards, woodland and wetlands.
Thousands of visitors from across Oldham and beyond flocked to the site to experience Oldham’s newest major visitor attraction on Saturday.
Families enjoyed an outdoor play area with a sandpit, climbing frames and water play and free activities including face painting, outdoor games, live music, a bubble performer, unicyclist and roaming stilt walkers.
They could explore Snipe Clough Farm, a new four-acre working urban farm and make wildflower seed bombs with the friendly team of volunteers.
One family, who travelled over from Stockport for the opening, said: "It's really nice to see sustainable projects like this. It's a great day out for the family."
Sami Al-Othman from Stretford said: "It's great. This is what is needed everywhere. We're always looking for new things to do with the kids, so this is perfect.”
The new cafe menu has been developed with acclaimed chef, food writer and restaurateur Mary-Ellen McTague – a 'farm-to-fork experience' serving fresh ingredients straight from the farm.
Developed over the past five years, Northern Roots includes spaces for school visits, community events, meetings, exhibitions and performances. By 2030, Northern Roots aims to attract 300,000 visitors a year.
The project aims to increase wildlife habitats by 25 per cent, generate clean renewable energy and store 30,000 tonnes of carbon by 2050.
Shelley Kipling, Chief Executive at Oldham Council, said: “What has been achieved here is truly remarkable. Transforming former industrial land into a vibrant green space that people can enjoy, learn from and benefit from is something that will make a lasting difference to people's lives.
“Northern Roots will give our residents new opportunities to connect with nature, improve their wellbeing, learn new skills and spend time with their family and friends.
“Oldham is one of the greenest boroughs in the region and we want people to enjoy the benefits of having such a fantastic green space on the doorstep. This is a landmark moment for Oldham that complements the wider regeneration of our borough.
“This is just the beginning. We can't wait to see it continue to grow and make a real difference to our communities, bringing people together for many years to come."
Anna da Silva, Chief Executive of Northern Roots, added: "Today is the beginning of something we've been working towards for many years. It's incredibly exciting to finally welcome people through our doors and invite them to experience everything Northern Roots has to offer.
"This project has always been about much more than creating a beautiful green space. We've set out to show what happens when you invest in nature as essential social infrastructure - somewhere that improves health, creates opportunities, restores biodiversity, supports local businesses and brings communities together.
"Standing here today, surrounded by woodland alive with wildlife, people enjoying the space, children exploring the landscape and community champions sharing their knowledge, you can already see the difference this place is making. Northern Roots belongs to Oldham, but we also hope it becomes an example of what is possible for towns and cities across the UK.
"Our work doesn't stop with today's opening. This is the start of the next chapter, and we're looking forward to continuing to grow the landscape, the programmes, the partnerships and the opportunities that will ensure Northern Roots creates lasting benefits for generations to come."
Normal operating hours will begin from this Thursday, September 24, 9am to 4pm Thursday to Sunday.
For more information visit Northern Roots , ,
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